Change is the only constant thing in life. I've learned to like it even though sometimes it's hard. This blog is about adapting to changes and seeing things differently. I guess my wish is for readers to see value in taking the 'risk' of changing, for the better, and maybe contribute towards their courage trying it :)

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Lessons from a Computer

Become a programmer. I just realized that a programmer's job is based on failure. If things didn't fail we wouldnt need to work much. 70-80% of our time is spent fixing bugs, correcting logical and semantic mistakes. We are reminded daily how much we suck. But it doesn't make us feel bad most of the time. We often even have fun figuring out where we screwed up.

In an introductory course in software engineering, the prof taught us that most projects fail.they fail not because of the lack of technical skills, but rather, because of management and other issues. So as developers we eventually get used to the idea of things not turning out the way we'd want them to. Yet we keep learning and developing eagerly, building on past failures and successes alike.

In a way, I feel that the path is similar for any succesful artist. There is no need for failure. Only for learning and development. Things barely ever go as planned but true passion finds a way of finding opportunity in every obstacle. And so the most persistent learners triumph on the scene while the easily discouraged decide that this is not a suitable career for them despite the passion.

Sometimes, all it takes is some humility to see our need for improvement and hard work. 10 000 hours is only a couple years away. Let's not be quitters.